Richard James Higby, a dedicated educator and esteemed member of the Agricultural Sciences community, passed away on February 5, 2025, at the age of 82.

Richard (Dick) was born in Lowville, N.Y., on November 22, 1942, to the late Herman Higby and Gladys Boshart Higby

Dick devoted over 30 years of his life to teaching at the State University of New York Morrisville. His passion for agriculture and commitment to education led him to play a pivotal role in establishing the Belgian Draft Horse Program in the early 1980s, one of the first in the country and which has since become an integral part of the college’s well-regarded and robust Equine Science program.

One of Dick’s greatest joys was mentoring and inspiring countless young adults, instilling in them a deep appreciation for agricultural sciences. He always had a story to tell and enjoyed visiting with friends and family.

Dick completed his early education at Lowville Academy and Central School before pursuing higher education at the SUNY Morrisville and University of Maine, Orono, where he finished with a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics.

After retiring, Dick moved to North Carolina, where he cherished many fulfilling years with his beloved wife Sally Higby, whom he married in 2009. Together, they enjoyed life on their farm, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of family.

Richard is survived by his wife, Sally Higby; son, Michael Higby (Daynel Bernal); daughter, Christine (Geof) Wilson; grandchildren, Claire and Sadie Wilson; brother, Howard (Marcia) Higby; sister, Joyce (Tom) Kopcik; stepson, Allan Krider (Penny) (Kelley, Reece and Elliana), Kaitlyn (Matthew); stepson, Jeff Krider (Linda), Joshua (Holly), Stephanie (Mark, Ezra, and Titus children), Christina (Ryan, Steven and Dorsey), Randy (Elizabeth), Chelsea (Dakota, Jackson and Elena), Krystalyn, Brittney (Lisandro, Eli and Luka) and all their beloved animals.

A funeral service will be held at at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at New Sterling ARP Church with Pastor Boone McAulay officiating. Burial will follow at New Sterling Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall following the committal service .

In lieu of flowers please make donations to New Sterling ARP Church. Click Here.

Nicholson Funeral Home is serving the family.